Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

Chewy chow mein noodles stir fried in a savory sauce with crunchy cabbage, celery, and onions make this Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein a delightful dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving a quick side dish, this recipe is perfect. It’s not only simple to prepare but also budget-friendly, saving you the cost of takeout while delivering the same delicious flavors right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This chow mein can be made in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pan.
• Flavorful: The combination of sauces creates a savory depth that enhances the chewy noodles.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a side dish or add protein to make it a complete meal.
• Budget-Friendly: Save money by making this popular dish at home with simple ingredients.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, make sure you have the right tools on hand. They will help streamline your cooking process and ensure your chow mein comes out perfectly every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large frying pan or wok
• Colander
• Small bowl
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large frying pan or wok: This allows for even cooking and plenty of space to stir-fry the ingredients without overcrowding.
• Colander: Essential for draining the blanched noodles without losing their shape.
• Small bowl: Perfect for mixing your sauce ingredients together before adding them to the pan.

Ingredients

Noodles and Vegetables

• 1 lb chow mein noodles (fresh kind)
• 2 cups cabbage (thinly sliced)
• 1 cup celery (sliced)
• 1 small onion (sliced)

Sauces and Oils

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
• 2 tbsp regular soy sauce
• 1/2 tbsp dark soy sauce
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce (or vegetarian stir fry sauce)
• 1 tbsp sesame oil

Aromatics

• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1/4 cup chicken stock (low-sodium, or cold water)
• 1/2 tbsp cornstarch (or potato starch)

How to Make Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the noodle sauce ingredients as listed above and set aside.

Step 2: Blanch the Noodles

Bring a large pan filled halfway with water to boil on medium-high heat. Blanch the chow mein noodles for 20-30 seconds or until loosened.

Step 3: Drain the Noodles

Strain the noodles in a colander and set aside. Do not rinse off with water as this will wash away flavor.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Fry the onions, cabbage, and celery until softened, about 1 minute.

Step 5: Combine Noodles and Sauce

Push the veggies to one side of the pan. Add the remaining oil into the empty space, then add the noodles along with your prepared sauce.

Step 6: Toss Everything Together

Toss all ingredients together until noodles are well coated in sauce. Remove from heat and serve immediately!

With these simple steps, you’ll have your very own Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

Serving your Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein can elevate your meal experience. This dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes that enhance its flavor and presentation.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle freshly chopped green onions on top for added crunch and flavor.
• Cilantro: Add a handful of cilantro leaves for a fresh, aromatic touch.

As a Main Dish

• With Grilled Chicken: Serve alongside grilled chicken breast for a protein-packed meal.
• Tofu Stir-Fry: Pair with sautéed tofu for a vegetarian option that’s just as satisfying.

Garnished with Nuts

• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty flavor and an appealing look to your chow mein.
• Crushed Peanuts: A sprinkle of crushed peanuts gives an extra layer of texture.

Accompanied by Dipping Sauces

• Soy Sauce: Offer soy sauce on the side for those who like an extra salty kick.
• Sweet Chili Sauce: Provide sweet chili sauce for those who enjoy a hint of sweetness.

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How to Perfect Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

To make your Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein even better, consider these simple tips.

• Use Fresh Noodles: Fresh chow mein noodles provide the best texture and flavor compared to dried noodles.
• Don’t Overcook Vegetables: Stir-fry vegetables just until they are tender to maintain their crunch.
• Customize the Sauce: Adjust the soy sauce amounts based on your salt preference; you can also add more garlic for extra flavor.
• Add Protein: Enhance nutrition by mixing in proteins like shrimp, chicken, or tofu during cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

Pairing your Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein with complementary side dishes can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Egg Rolls: Crispy egg rolls filled with veggies or meat make a classic accompaniment.
2. Spring Rolls: Light and fresh, spring rolls filled with shrimp or veggies add variety without heaviness.
3. Fried Rice: Flavorful fried rice can complement your chow mein perfectly while adding extra carbs.
4. Hot and Sour Soup: A warm soup adds depth to your meal, offering contrasting textures and flavors.
5. Chinese Pickled Vegetables: These tangy vegetables provide a refreshing crunch that balances the savory chow mein.
6. Steamed Dumplings: Soft dumplings filled with pork or vegetables can round out your meal beautifully.
7. Wonton Soup: Light yet filling, wonton soup is perfect for those who love broth-based dishes.
8. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds nutrients while keeping the focus on the chow mein flavors.

Enjoy crafting the perfect serving experience for your Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein, it’s easy to make simple mistakes. Here are some common errors and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the noodle prep: Not blanching the chow mein noodles can lead to clumpy and chewy results. Always blanch them briefly before adding to the stir-fry for the best texture.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking the cabbage and celery too long can make them mushy. Stir-fry just until they are tender-crisp for a nice crunch.
• Ignoring sauce balance: Using too much or too little sauce affects flavor. Measure your sauces carefully to achieve the perfect savory taste.
• Rinsing noodles after blanching: Rinsing removes starch that helps sauce stick. Always strain without rinsing for better coating.
• Not using high heat: Stir-frying on low heat leads to soggy noodles. Make sure your pan is hot enough to quickly fry ingredients without steaming them.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• Best used within 1-2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes covered with foil.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring between intervals until heated through.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water or chicken stock, stirring until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein.

How can I customize my Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein?

You can add proteins like chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra flavor and nutrition. Feel free to mix in other vegetables such as bell peppers or bean sprouts.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply substitute oyster sauce with a vegetarian stir-fry sauce, and you have a delicious vegetarian version of Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein.

What type of noodles should I use?

For the best results, use fresh chow mein noodles; they give the dish its characteristic chewy texture.

How do I prevent my chow mein from getting soggy?

Make sure not to overcook your vegetables and always strain your noodles without rinsing them after blanching.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! Just ensure you use a larger pan and adjust cooking times as needed to keep everything evenly cooked.

Final Thoughts

Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein is a delightful dish that brings comfort food right into your kitchen. Its quick preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights, while its versatility allows you to customize it with various proteins and veggies. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a taste of homemade Chinese food!